PROPOSALS by Brampton Parish Council would mean that residents who want to commemorate loved ones who died, with a park bench and plaque, would be charged up to £400.

Councillors had previously considered the plans in December which included "limiting the number of memorial benches on land that it controls".

Additionally they decided to look at adopting proposals that would limit the types of benches and plaques that can be used.

They are furthermore seeking to clarify their responsibility for their upkeep, who is liable if they are damaged or vandalised, and establish the the right of removal.

The proposals state:"The parish council will only permit memorial benches to individuals, and in exceptional circumstances, an historic event. Applications for memorials to pets will not be considered."

At an online meeting on Tuesday night, they decided to buy a number of benches from Dumfries & Galloway based Solway Recycling, and speak to a local joinery firm about other designs.

Councillor Richard Harding said the benches and plaques would cost about £400 but that they were "good value for money".

Jenni Errington, council chairman said: "A family could club together and buy it."

Allison Riddell, council clerk said there was currently no standard type of benches adding that: "With the cemetery extension being built there does probably need to be some uniformity, there's no agreement on maintenance, who's responsible for what."

The policy will be discussed at February 23 meeting.